Treading the Troubled Waters of Training: Some Guidelines for Improving Learning Efficiency.

Lackmann, John

A study was undertaken to examine the practicality of formulating efficient teaching strategies by deriving them from simulations of learner characteristics. Thirty interdisciplinary concepts were introduced as guidelines for learning efficiency, and three principle requirements for learning efficiency were derived: (1) educational materials should be matched with the sensory input/data-processing characteristics of the learner; (2) students should determine their own pace; and (3) adequate motivation should be ensured. The simulations were introduced at regional medical meetings, and the reactions of 846 physicians were solicited. The resulting recommendations to improve training programs included the use of more on-the-job-training, the use of more simulations and games, and more student control over the pace of learning. (EMH)